Pussy Riot members taken to ‘prison hell’

"Nadya Tolokonnikova has been sent to Mordovia, and Maria Alyokhina to Perm," defense lawyer Violetta Volkova told AFP.

The Perm and Mordovia regions, both in central Russia, host a vast network of Soviet-era prison camps infamous for their tough conditions.

"They were convoyed on Saturday," Volkova said, noting that their relatives had learnt of the move when their parcels for the women were rejected at the Moscow prison where they had been temporarily held.

It remains unclear when the two young women, who both have small children, will reach their final destination, Volkova added.

A Twitter account organised by the band's supporters also said the two band members were taken in a "special" convoy to the prison camps, but gave no details.

"Of all the possible options, these are the cruelest prison camps," the Twitter account noted.

The art group Voina (War), which is closely affiliated with Pussy Riot, called Mordovia on Twitter "the worst prison hell there is".

Tolokonnikova, Alyokhina and their bandmate Yekaterina Samutsevich were in August sentenced to two years in prison after they staged a balaclava-clad performance inside Moscow's main cathedral mocking President Vladimir Putin.

Earlier this month a Russian appeals court upheld the prison camp sentences against Tolokonnikova and Alyokhina but unexpectedly ordered the release of Samutsevich in what many observers believe was an attempt to split the tight-knit band. – Reuters

These are unprecedented times, and the role of media to tell and record the story of South Africa as it develops is more important than ever. But it comes at a cost. Advertisers are cancelling campaigns, and our live events have come to an abrupt halt. Our income has been slashed.

The Mail & Guardian is a proud news publisher with roots stretching back 35 years. We’ve survived thanks to the support of our readers, we will need you to help us get through this.

To help us ensure another 35 future years of fiercely independent journalism, please subscribe.